While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into Atlanta provides more dramatic and varied views—the Chattahoochee River valley, suburban sprawl, and downtown skyline create a more visually interesting descent than the relatively flat Gulf Coast departure.
Flown MCF to ATL? Did we get it right?
Flight Path
Tampa to Atlanta is 416 miles (669 km), a flight of about 1 hour 15 minutes.
Florida's interior pine forests and lakes, the transition from coastal lowlands to the Georgia piedmont, the Ocmulgee River valley in central Georgia, and gradual elevation gain toward the Atlanta metropolitan area
Great circle distance and headings ›Phase by phase
Takeoff from MCF
RIGHTRight side offers views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeastward, so right-side seats capture the sparkling water, barrier islands, and coastal development as you gain altitude.
Landing at ATL
LEFTLeft side provides excellent views during approach into Hartsfield-Jackson. The aircraft descends from the northwest, and left-side seats capture the Atlanta metropolitan area, including downtown Atlanta's skyline, the Chattahoochee River valley, and the surrounding piedmont terrain.
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About This Route
Which side of the plane should I sit on flying from Macdill Afb (MCF) to The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL)?
Sit on the Left side of the plane for the best views on flights from Tampa to Atlanta. While takeoff offers coastal scenery, the landing approach into Atlanta provides more dramatic and varied views—the Chattahoochee River valley, suburban sprawl, and downtown skyline create a more visually interesting descent than the relatively flat Gulf Coast departure.
What can I see during takeoff from Macdill Afb in Tampa?
During takeoff from Macdill Afb (MCF), sit on the Right side for the best views. Right side offers views of Tampa Bay and the Gulf of Mexico coastline immediately after departure. The aircraft climbs northeastward, so right-side seats capture the sparkling water, barrier islands, and coastal development as you gain altitude. Notable sights include: Tampa Bay, Hillsborough Bay, Gulf of Mexico coastline, Clearwater and St. Petersburg barrier islands.
What can I see when landing at The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International in Atlanta?
When landing at The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL), sit on the Left side for the best views. Left side provides excellent views during approach into Hartsfield-Jackson. The aircraft descends from the northwest, and left-side seats capture the Atlanta metropolitan area, including downtown Atlanta's skyline, the Chattahoochee River valley, and the surrounding piedmont terrain. Notable sights include: Downtown Atlanta skyline, Chattahoochee River, Peachtree Creek valley, piedmont hills and forested areas.
How long is the flight from Tampa to Atlanta?
The flight from Macdill Afb (MCF) to The William B Hartsfield Atlanta International (ATL) takes about 1 hour 15 minutes. The shortest flight path between them is 416 miles (669 km); winds and air traffic control usually add a few percent.
What does the Tampa to Atlanta flight path pass over?
Florida's interior pine forests and lakes, the transition from coastal lowlands to the Georgia piedmont, the Ocmulgee River valley in central Georgia, and gradual elevation gain toward the Atlanta metropolitan area